HMAS Cape Hawke is an Evolved Cape Class patrol boat of the Royal Australian Navy. The vessel supports maritime security, surveillance and patrol operations in Australia's maritime approaches and offshore areas.

Working alongside Australian Border Force and other government agencies, Cape Hawke helps protect Australia's borders and offshore interests. This work includes monitoring, response and enforcement activities at sea.

Identity

HMAS Cape Hawke is named after Cape Hawke, a headland on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. The vessel continues the Royal Australian Navy's tradition of naming Cape Class patrol boats after Australian capes and coastal landmarks.

Service

Cape Hawke was accepted by the Royal Australian Navy at Austal's shipyard in Henderson, Western Australia, on 27 February 2026.

The vessel was the tenth Evolved Cape Class patrol boat delivered to Navy. Its delivery marked the completion of a major shipbuilding program that strengthened Australia's maritime capability.

Cape Hawke commissioned into Navy service on 27 August 2026.

Specifications

• Pennant number: 226
• International callsign: VKBZ
• Home port: HMAS Cairns
• Builder: Austal Ships, Fremantle
• Length: 58.1 metres
• Beam: 10.6 metres
• Draught: 3.1 metres
• Speed: 26 knots (top speed)
• Range: 4,000 nautical miles (12 knots)
• Crew: 25
• Machinery:
  • 2 Caterpillar 3516C diesels
  • 2 shafts
  • 1 bow thruster
• Horsepower: 6,770 (4.97 megawatts)
• Armament: two 12.7 mm machine guns